Clr MacLochlainn Deputy Leader of ECESG Hope Convoy April 2009

Sinn Fein Councillor Gerry MacLochlainn Sends Solidarity to Irish Activists Sailing to Gaza to smash the Illegal Israeli Blockade

Speaking to day as the ships entered International Waters Councillor MacLochlainn said.

“I send greetings to my comrades aboard the MV Saoirse as it takes to the seas on its heroic voyage to smash the illegal Siege on Palestine.

“I am unable to travel with the ship on this occasion although I was aboard last time when Israeli forces sabotaged our vessel. We pledged then that we would repair our ship and complete our journey. WE have done this and the ship set sail today along with a Canadian Ship and it is expected that they will reach Gaza waters in about 48 hours or so.

“Israeli forces have promised to do whatever they see fit to prevent them landing in Gaza. A few months ago they sabotaged our boat in a way that could have killed many of us, before that they murdered 9 innocent aid workers aboard a Turkish aid ship. We cannot but worry about our fellow citizens on this voyage.

“I call on the Irish Government to contact the Israeli regime immediately and tell them not to interfere with Irish citizens on the high seas and to lift their illegal siege of Gaza. I ask others to join me in this call on our Government to defend our citizens.

“To the Israelis. I say – You will not stop the Irish! We will break your siege!

“You will not stop the people of Palestine! Palestine will be free!”

ENDS

Councillor Gerry MacLochlainn

Derry City Council

NOTE TO MEDIA

Cllr Gerry MacLochlainn has travelled to Gaza on many occasions and will be visiting Gaza later this month. He as a member of the International Steering Group For Freedom Flotilla 2 and was a passenger on the MV Saoirse when it was sabotaged in Turkey a few months ago.

For clarification more information or to interview Clr MacLochlainn send any requests to press@derryfriendsofpalestine.org